Sri Lanka vs India, 3rd Test Match, Day 2: 5 Talking Points

4. Kuldeep Yadav’s spin web

Following his impressive debut in Dharmasala against Australia where he clinched a four wicket haul, Kuldeep Yadav got the nod ahead of Axar Patel to replace Ravindra Jadeja who faced a ban. His 27 with bat remained vital in India stretching the score in their first innings. Yadav followed it up with an impressive spell of bowling for which the Lankans had no answer to. He bamboozled the Lankans with his flight and guile; and ended up with four wickets, giving away just 40 runs in his 13 over spell. He saw the back of Kusal Mendis with the help of his awareness on field, running him out.

Just when the partnership between Chandimal and Dickwella was blossoming, he broke it after deceiving the latter with a well flighted googly. Saha was quick to remove the bails with Dickwella outside the crease. He dismissed Pushpakumara and Fernando comprehensively to make a mockery of the Sri Lankan batting, apart from the wicket of Perera. Overall, it was a satisfying day if you are a Kuldeep Yadav fan.